Home Decor Blog

Best home decor writers under one roof
April 19th, 2008

beautiful wall tapestries

I’ve always had a passion for fabric and needlework. Beautiful wall tapestries were and still are a source of fascination when visiting manor houses in Europe, for example. But why not bring them in and incorporate them into our own home decor? Here’s an interesting review about the history of wall tapestries an important suggestion  -

Tapestries Wall Hangings: Best For Home Decor by janet

Tapestry is a unique form of textile art. It is hand knitted on a vertical loom. The presence of Tapestries wall hanging has been witnessed since the Hellenistic times. During the fourteenth century AD, the art of making tapestries wall hanging reached a new stage in Europe. It originated in Switzerland and Germany and then moved on to the Netherlands and France, later spreading to the whole of Europe. During the 14th and 15th
centuries, France became the centre of this rare art. The French Revolution some what affected the presence of this art.

The Tapestries wall hangings became extremely popular in medieval Europe. In fact, Wall Hangings Tapestries made its presence in every nook and corner of a common man’s house. The different types of Wall Hangings Tapestries include the Croft European, religious and the Bayeux embroidered tapestry.Tapestries wall hangings are a rare collection. The warp threads are hidden in the final work. This is unlike cloth weaving, where we get to see the existence of both the weft threads and the warp. Utilizing this unique technique, a vibrant coloured outline of the image is created. Usually, the cotton or the linen is used as the warp thread. The weft thread usually consists of cotton or wool, but may also include gold, silver,
silk, and other alternatives. This uniqueness provides it with a natural aesthetic beauty. Its long heritage and beauty is no match for the contemporary and traditional decorative items of today.

The Tapestries wall hangings are available in different designs and colours. The main yarn colours are bluish green, russet or terracotta, olive green, dull gold and blue. Sage green and black is also not uncommon. Late repairs are worked in orange, light yellow, and shades of sober greens. The different patterns, designs and styles used in these Wall Hangings Tapestries include beautiful landscapes, pictures of animals and
wildlife and court scenes. It also includes images of the countryside and the city life as well, besides certain religious and mythological events.

During the 14th and 15th centuries, Arras, France was a prosperous textile town. The industry focused in manufacturing fine wool tapestries that were sold to decorate the castles and palaces of kings and nobles all over Europe. Even in the modern era, Tapestries wall hangings are very popular and are used to provide a unique ambience to the house. There are certain premium tapestry sellers like Croft European Tapestries that
will help you acquire brilliantly coloured tapestries with intricate designs. Use one of them to create a mesmerising ambience in your home or workplace!

About the author:
Janet is a well-known author who writes on the topics related with Tapestries, Tapestries Wall Hangings, Religious Wall Hanging & more for the site www.crofteuropeantapestries.co.uk.

April 16th, 2008

Cabin Decor

Love it country style? Rustic cabin decor may be just the thing for you. Here’s an interesting piece written by Tess Tackett on this very topic -

Cabin Decor for the Outdoor Lover in You

If you are the woodsy type, cabin decor is perfect for you! The colors of nature along with wildlife and rustic accents make cabin decor a look any outdoor lover will want in their own cabin or home.

This look can easily be achieved by using accents associated with hunting and fishing. Many people use bear skin rugs on the floor, along with mounted deer and buffalo heads on the wall. These are the perfect touch for the cabin decor look.

country decor

Along with wood floors, you may also have exposed rough wood ceiling beams and rustic walls. The addition of shadowboxes containg fishing items such as lures is also an excellent addition. Anything associated with the forest, lakes and mountains will add to the relaxed feeling of cabin decor.

Wildlife pictures containing elk or wolves are beautifully colored and will add to the look. Fishing oars are also an interesting touch for the walls, as are fishing nets. Cabin decor is an easy look to achieve with the use of some accents you wouldn’t ordinarily think of as decorating items.

I have even seen wooden fishing boats used as shelves, with the addition of a couple of extra boards placed inside. With cabin decor, you can place a few hunting caps and camouflage items along with wildlife figurines, and this makes for a very unique conversation piece!

When it comes to the furniture, use big husky looking sofas and chairs in a leather or leather-look material. Rustic color plaid fabrics work well also. Natural wood tables add to the woodsy look.

As you can see, there are endless options when it comes to decorating your home or home away from home with the unique cabin decor style. Think of what types of hunting or fishing you like, and use some of those items to decorate your home or cabin. This is relaxation at it’s best!

About the Author

Turn your home into a cabin in the woods with cabin decor that will add an outdoorsy feeling to your home!

Tess Tackett invites you to visit All About Home Decor, where you will find all styles of home decor at wholesale prices, every day!

April 16th, 2008

Kitchen Counters - for your kitchen decor

Amazing how changing the kitchen counters can change the overall look of your kitchen. Whether as part of a makeover, or in their own right, they can give your kitchen a brand new look. Read this interesting article for some tips on choosing the right counters for the look you need -

Change The Kitchen Countertops by Eric Slarkowski

Remodeling counter top may be easier than you think. There is no reason for countertop renovations to be extremely difficult. The degree of difficulty that it takes for removal of the current counter depends on what it is made of. Also the length of time that the counter top has been down also will influence the level of difficulty. Laminated countertops are attached with glue to wood surfaces. This can require a solvent to loosen up the glue. If that doesn’t work then you may have to gouge through the wood before it can be completely removed.Sometimes the best way to remodel kitchen counter tops is to replace the whole top. Taking it off of the counter base should be a very easy ordeal. Simply loosen a few screws and bolts and take it off. The cabinets should now be exposed and the surface that the counter is connected to can be washed and sanded to make room for the placement of a new counter top.
kitchen counters

The type of counter top chosen for the remodel is based on personal preference and the allotted budget. Pre-made countertops can be purchased from home improvement stores. They can be set in place with ease and connected to cabinets. This is the simplest way to remodel countertops if you are installing them yourself. Having a professional put down countertop is of course, the easiest way possible.

Do with stone or granite if you are looking for a more attractive countertop. Marble is also a great choice for countertops. While it can be more costly than traditional countertop, it is much more beautiful than a wood top. Having these countertops ordered and precut is a must, unless the homeowner is skilled enough to do this.

A hole for the kitchen sink and water supplies has to be made fro custom jobs. The splashboard has to be placed correctly in order to stop water from coming into the cabinets. This type of counter remodeling is a little bit more difficult so a professional should probably the one to do it. Working with water and stone can be very difficult and if stone if cut the wrong way it can wind up costing a fortune to get it fixed.

Vinyl and plastic countertops are not recommended. They can easily be cut by utensils and they often do not match the rest of the decor. Countertops should fit in nicely with the rest of the room. Be sure that you find a material that looks great with the rest of your decor.

About the Author

Eric Slarkowski published mostly for http://www.kitchen-cabinets-tips.com , a web publication with information about cheap cabinet , used kitchen cabinets and other ideas. You can have a look at his observations on cheap kitchen cabinets at http://www.kitchen-cabinets-tips.com .

April 12th, 2008

Contemporary Bedroom Furniture

The following article takes a look at home decor from a unique angle - decorating the bedroom of a sought after bachelor, looking for the right lady! Some good tips for you guys out there -

Contemporary Bedroom Furniture - Perfect For Bachelor Pads by Jesse Akre

There are two types of bachelor pads, those of men who want to stay single and those of men who would like to land the perfect special someone. For the men who want to remain single, this article is not going to help. But, for those who are ready to create a bachelor pad that will endear them to the ladies, read on.

For the most part, bachelor pads are though of as a place where boys are going to play, not really show off their best side. These are like overgrown game rooms with a bed and a refrigerator somewhere in the area. While you don’t have to change the whole look, you should at least have one room in the pad that means business and seems grown up. It’s the bedroom.

Head into your bedroom and look around. This is one room in the house that doesn’t get enough attention, unless someone is coming over. Then there is the rush to push all the dirty clothes in the closet, close the drawers and try to dust things off. But, you’re not covering up the horrible mismatched furniture.

It’s time to do a little shopping. One of the most popular styles on the market is contemporary bedroom furniture. This is a furniture style that is definitely masculine. Characterized by strong lines, black lacquer, chrome, and other masculine colors, and even a little bit of a mechanical look, it’s right up the decor alley for guys. At the same time, contemporary bedroom furniture is a hit with women because all the stars are using it. So, the purchase of contemporary bedroom furniture is a win-win for you.

One key to contemporary bedroom furniture is that you don’t have to have a million pieces, like in many other bedroom furniture sets. Instead, when you are purchasing contemporary bedroom furniture you should think ‘less is more’, as this is the philosophy for this style of décor.

How great to not have to have all kinds of accent pieces, as most women would choose. If they say the space is too open, you can mention that contemporary bedroom furniture is meant to be that way, as it’s all about space and being functional, not ‘pretty’. She’ll likely be impressed at your home décor knowledge.

For the most part, bedroom furniture consists of a bed, nightstand, and dresser. You could get a second dresser and nightstand if you want a little bit larger of a set. There are no fancy wood-carvings on contemporary bedroom furniture. Instead, you are looking for mahogany, black lacquer, chrome, iron, and other very strong, well defined pieces that don’t need decorative fanfare.

Accenting for contemporary furniture is minimalist. You may want a floor lamp or table lamp on your nightstand. These, too, will be simple, a chrome or black lamp will do the trick nicely.

Don’t forget the bedding. Stick with the modern theme, not the old blanket you’ve had since college. It’s time to purchase a bedding set, that goes with the décor you have created, to complete the look.

While many men think home décor is a feminine art, you can create your own masculine getaway that is the top of fashion trends with the help of contemporary bedroom furniture.

About the Author

Jesse Akre, author and owner of numerous home decor sites, offers online consumers his thoughts on purchasing indoor accessories such as traditional bedroom furniture sets, inviting contemporary bedroom furniture and sleek and simple modern bedroom furniture.

April 10th, 2008

tuscany style decor

Tuscany is often referred to as the emblem of rustic country Italian home design. Dream of having a little bit of Tuscany at your own home? This excellent article gives you nine tips how to achieve true Tuscany style decor. It’s a bit on the long side, but well worth a read!

9 Action Steps to create the magic of Tuscany in your home… by Linda Hutchinson

Step 1. A little inspiration is in order You can begin by choosing an inspiration piece to help you get started. From this inspirational piece, you can choose your color palette, determining your primary and secondary (accent) colors. This is an insider trick that professional interior designers and decorators use, and it works! By using a “Tuscan look” painting or photograph, pottery, or textiles (such as an area rug or tapestry) you will have a starting point upon which to build your room. This “trick” will give you a personal Tuscan color palette.

Step 2. Declutter - clear the way

To set the stage and prepare your home for your new Tuscan style, consider a good purge of clutter. Clutter is the antithesis of Tuscan design. Pack away, sell, or give away anything that does not meet the simplicity and functionality test!

Step 3. Consider your options

Remember that the goal is to layer your home with welcoming Tuscan decor elements. Your plan should be to create a feeling of warmth, charm, and simplicity in every room of your home. Your “tool kit” will contain your vision of your Tuscan home, those lovely Tuscan colors, some well-chosen Tuscan furnishings and accessories, and determination and perspiration (which might mean a paint brush and a trowel!).

Step 4. Choosing where to begin

If your family/living room and kitchen are “open concept” and/or connected, this offers the perfect opportunity to instantly recreate your home in the Tuscan style. Beginning with a smaller, less visible room, though, provides an opportunity to “experiment” with wall treatments and furnishings, and a bedroom can be less expensive to redecorate than a family room or kitchen.

Step 5. What furniture, lighting and accessories will you need?

Functionality is key, as is rustic style to Tuscan decor. Think of wood, wrought iron, ceramics… “simple and sturdy” rather than “fine and ornate”. It is not necessary (and indeed is not desirable) to fill your room(s) with items that “match”. They must, however, be functional pieces, and may even serve more than one purpose. A bench, for instance, may open up for storage. Quality and durability are key.

Step 6. Taking a Tuscan style inventory

Consider what Tuscan design elements you already have, which ones you want to keep and which ones you would want to replace (for instance, you may already have stone or wood flooring, which you adore, but a Victorian kitchen table which could “find a new home!”).

Step 7. Choosing your colors

Select your favorite colors from your Tuscan inspiration piece or from a Tuscan color palette. Start with decisions about walls - which can transform a room faster than anything else - whether a paint treatment, a texturizing treatment, or a wall covering. If you want a plaster-like finish on a “plain” wall (very Tuscan!) you might choose a texturizing treatment (e.g. faux finish) or use some of the new textured wall coverings. Some of these finishing techniques require either a professional painter/wall hanger or a determined zeal!

And before finalizing your color palette, look at the function and mood of the room and the exposure you have (your natural light sources) before choosing the “warm” or “cool” colors of your Tuscan color palette.

Step 8. Creating a plan

Advance planning will provide you with the opportunity to determine how much you will spend on the project (establishing a budget) that is vital for avoiding the stress that is sometimes associated with redecorating projects.

Decide on the scope and timeline for the project, and whether it will be done incrementally or all at once. Will you be going it alone, using professional contractors & designers, the help of friends, or a combination?

Be realistic - It will likely cost more than you think, so also be conservative. Set out a budget and fit things into it. You can always add elements later as your finances and inclination allow.

Step 9. Roll up your sleeves and get started!

Maximum impact, right away, will be achieved by beginning with walls so consider a paint treatment, a texturizing treatment, or a wall covering. Alternately, flooring (if this is part of your overall plan) will also create tremendous instant impact. If budget is a consideration, remember that Tuscan design allows (in fact encourages) that we use and elevate humble materials. Antiques and pieces of salvaged ironwork become decorative art; well-worn wooden chairs are cherished for their rustic simplicity. Look at furniture with a new “old” eye.

You’re now ready to move forward and start transforming your home into a little bit of Tuscany!

Copyright 2008. Excerpt from Decorating in the Tuscan Style, the 162-page eBook packed with tips and techniques (and lots of photos) to help you transform your home and garden into the heart and soul of Tuscany. To learn more about Tuscan décor, visit http://www.intheTuscanstyle.com.

About the Author

Linda Hutchinson has been a designer for over 25 years. She incorporates Tuscan design principles in renovations and in designing new home decor. With her passion and appreciation for impressionist art and painting, it’s no surprise that she is inspired by the vibrancy and spirited style of Tuscan decorating. To learn more about Tuscan décor visit http://www.intheTuscanstyle.com.

April 8th, 2008

Country Home Decor Tips

This short article is actually full of little tips that will help  you add a county style touch to your home decor without any huge makeover. If you want that special country style at your place, check it out -

Country Home Decor for a Warm and Welcoming Home   by Tess Tackett

Country home decor is the perfect choice for creating a cozy and comfortable atmosphere for your home. The warm and inviting feeling country home decor creates will make your home the place everyone wants to be! In this article we will find out how to create the look.

While natural wood and rustic tones add charm to your home, the accents you use can add a vibrant splash of color. Think of the colors you find in roosters, for example. Roosters are very commonly used in country home decor. Many people also use brightly colored sunflowers, especially in the kitchen.

For the family room, rustic wood is widely used. Many homes have rough exposed beams and even rough textured wooden paneling. This adds a cabin type of feeling, which is perfect for country home decor. To decorate walls, rustic wooden shadowboxes are the perfect touch.

Add a few country accents such as throw pillows with a country theme and a richly colored quilt draped over a wooden rocking chair. Pictures of barns and old-time country landscapes make beautiful additions to country home decor. Place a few country scented candles on coffee and end tables. Scents like cinnamon and apple pie add to the warm atmosphere.

In the kitchen there are endless options for creating the look. Roosters, cows and sunflowers are all perfect for this area. The addition of a bakers rack and a hanging pot rack add even more charm to country home decor. If your cabinets are dropped down from the ceiling, use this area for rooster statues and any other country accents you like.

This is one of the most popular types of decor. Look through some magazines, search the internet and use your imagination. You are sure to come up with dozens of ideas to help you create a country home decor style you and your family will love!

About the Author

Add country charm to your home! Country home decor creates a warm and inviting home your visitors will love!

Tess Tackett invites you to browse over 600 home decor accents! Top quality and beauty at wholesale prices.

April 2nd, 2008

The Coffee Table - An interesting Touch for Your Living Room

So much to be said for a small item of furniture… Read this article to learn more about coffee tables -

Colorful Coffee Tables - Art for Living Room   by Daniel Spivey

Coffee Tables generally adore the sit out or living room in most of the homes around the world. Coffee tables made up of different materials such as wood, aluminum, plastic with variety of colors, shapes and sizes are available. Coffee tables can be oval, square, rectangular etc. Pie shaped coffee table looks nice when placed in a corner and this saves space too. Coffee tables can be purchased online also. A number online furniture stores offer coffee tables with description about the prize, weight, utility value, after sales service etc. It would be a awkward life Without a coffee table. It is very difficult to hold a hot cup of coffee without a coffee table. The invention of coffee table is only a natural extension of human nature. Coffee Table is a wonderful place to relax. A table to hold the hot coffee cups was first designed in 1868 and was named ‘coffee table’. Now the uses of coffee tables are well accustomed. With the increase of Coffee/Tea clubs, bars or shops the usage of coffee tables are also increased. Coffee Tables are a must to entertain the guests and the guests behave in the way expected with a nice coffee table before them.A coffee table must be spacious to hold more magazines and a television remote. Of course, there are a number of modern coffee tables are available in the market and this really makes a statement in living room. A coffee table is functional as well as a conversation furniture. Some coffee tables have a colored glass fixed on the top surface and look very nice. Some coffee tables come out with attached nest tables. Modern coffee tables with variety of designs such as Big Cheese design, Ray and Charles Eames design are available in the market.

Coffee tables are an intricate part of our families. Coffee Tables represent the style, fashion and sense of pride. Coffee tables are versatile and convenient. A color glass fixed on top of coffee table provides additional elegance. Coffee Tables with Aluminum legs, wooden legs is simply superb. Glass top coffee tables are easy to clean and it is also fancy. Glass top coffee tables are durable and are difficult to break. Contemporary coffee tables made up of hardwoods, aluminum definitely fit the desired decor. The early coffee club was opened in London in 1652.

Modular coffee tables can be used as end tables. Modern coffee tables are not only a decorative accent, but a functional piece of furniture. Coffee Tables must blend with other home furniture so the right type of coffee tables can be selected. Wooden coffee tables to match with other wood furniture or iron coffee table to match other similar furniture etc. Coffee Tables must be light weighted and portable. Coffee table brings the living room together. Coffee tables can serve as small dining table, a drink holder and a place for day to day books and magazines. Coffee Tables can add s splash of color and style to home. Coffee Tables with marble top fixed is also looks nice.

Coffee table is generally a small low sitting table and a central piece of furniture in waiting room, lounge or living room. Normally the selection of coffee table matches the existing interior decor. Glass top Coffee tables combined with stainless steel or chromed frame is an added elegance and modern feel to the waiting or living room. The role of coffee table was barely acknowledged in the midst of heavy furniture. A coffee table can be bought after considering the size, type and style of coffee table. Traditional coffee tables are made up of wood. Contemporary coffee tables are better designed with different materials. Coffee table must be right sized to match the sofa.

For more info about coffee tables please visit coffee tables

April 1st, 2008

garden furniture - the outdoors decor element

Designing the look and feel of your outdoors is just as important as that of the indoors. In many ways, your patio and backyard are another room in your home, providing you with much required living space. The following article covers the topic of how to choose the right kind of garden furniture -

Making The Right Choice When You Buy Garden Furniture   by Harwood E Woodpecker

As soon as the sun comes out this summer you can guarantee that we will all leave our homes in droves and go and sit outside and enjoy the warmth. But how has your patio furniture stood up to the winter months? Has it taken on a dilapidated look and is in need of replacing. If so what option have you open to you, after all you want to make the right choice as you’ll be spending the next few months enjoying the weather on your new furniture.Garden furniture is available in a wide variety of sizes and styles to suit all pockets, there is more choice than ever available now of outdoor patio furniture featuring wickerwork and aluminium furniture. For a refined, traditional look, metal tables are the perfective tense reply. Would you prefer singular yard decorations such as statues and bird baths? This is a big indicator of summer on its way climax fast. Tradition cushions and accessories are also available to crown your new patio furniture and dialect your outdoor blank space. Is the space large plenty for a day bed lounge? Let us help you get ready to spend the rest of the summertime out on your terrace. Tropitone outdoor patio furniture is available through and through top commercial designers, or our meshing of exclusive outdoor furnishings dealers. We have a list of new models in dining chairs and dining sets.

If you are looking for a long lasting, durable patio furniture cover, then look no further, available from manufacturers are pieces of high character outdoor furniture available for sale at reasonable prices. The selection of premium outdoor furniture available ranges from classic and timeless to occasional and contemporary. Most outdoor furniture suppliers also cater for the garden furniture, decor, and outdoor cookery equipment that you may need. These are just a few of the things that you should consider when picking out your patio furniture. From fire pits to outdoor heaters and fans, find everything you need to stay warm or cool this flavour. Would you prefer unique yard decorations such as statues and bird baths?

The choice of materials and finishes available allow for countless combinations of designs and styles to fit any taste. Adirondack, or teak, or just classic wicker furniture are always very popular and should be given careful consideration. The clean lines of teak add a modern, chic look to furniture, while the flowery scrollwork of moulded iron lends a distinguished, classic feel to your patio. Aside from that, you want high timber patio furniture that is the most dependable, and the most lasting patio furniture you can buy. Manufacturers and distributors of affordable tone usance built patio furniture, outdoor patio bar furniture, pool furniture, deck furniture and fooling outdoor furniture products are always a good place to start to look for your ideal piece.

If not, you may want to pick out patio furniture made from a wood that weathers well, like teak, or you may adjudicate on aluminium. With many cast aluminium patio furniture collections to opt from we are sure you will find the hone furniture items you have been sounding for. Patio umbrellas that feature article pulley, button, crank, or leash tilting mechanisms perfective for shading your outdoor patio furniture are always a good ass on to your furniture; you’ll appreciate them in the height of summer. For a refined, traditional look, metal tables are the hone answer. This is a big indicator of summer on its way coming fast. With the right merchandise you can warm up and get cosy outdoors and take the chill essence away with a manageable fire or gas warmer.

Folding furniture is also ideal for individuals who desire winter entrepot when animation in an apartment or villa. You will be able to find outdoor furniture, patio collections, and accessories that will be able to furnish any patio or lawn at affordable prices. Those of us that have already invested in furniture usually look for cushions and accessories for decoration. Peruse the descriptions to find the things you love the most. When winter comes you fold it up and store it in the cupboard. Tropitone outdoor patio furniture is available through top commercial designers, or our net of exclusive outdoor furnishings dealers.

With many cast aluminium patio furniture collections to opt from we are sure you will find the perfective furniture items you have been looking for. Whether you are sounding for affordable patio furniture, patio sustenance furniture or beautiful patio furniture, you will find what you need by shopping around.

If you think outdoor patio heaters are expensive options that only fancy restaurants can afford, think once more, these are now very affordable and within may peoples price point. Teak is known the world over as the most beautiful and durable material for outdoor and garden use and is a very wise choice for outdoor furniture although it is slightly more expensive.

About the Author

For more info on all things patio, flooring and gardening please visit our site - www.patio-flooring.com Teak garden furniture Please feel free to republish this article provided a working hyperlink remains to our site Harwood E Woodpecker